Tennessee Softball Edges Auburn 4-2 with Pannell's Walk-Off Homer

No. 4 Tennessee secured a dramatic 4-2 walk-off win over Auburn in the series opener, thanks to Taylor Pannell's two-run home run in the bottom of the seventh inning. Auburn initially took a 2-0 lead in the sixth, but Tennessee quickly responded with solo homers from Sophia Nugent and Gabby Leach to tie the game. Starting pitcher Karlyn Pickens kept Tennessee in contention, recording six strikeouts over seven innings while allowing only four hits and two runs. Pannell, who leads the Lady Vols in multiple offensive categories this season, continued her standout performance with her 14th home run. Auburn's pitching staff, including a strong start by Malayna Tamborra, kept Tennessee scoreless for five innings before the late-game turnaround. The win sets the tone for the remainder of the series between these SEC rivals.